ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Va. — The county police department here began implementing the first part of a new false alarm ordinance this week.
Police reported that of the 6,100 alarm calls they responded to in the past three years, only 100 were real emergencies, NBC 29 reports. As a result, the county will not fine residents for the first two false alarms over the course of the year. However, the third call will cost business and homeowners $100. After the fifth offense, the fee increases to $300.
The second part of the ordinance requires alarm owners to register their alarm systems with the county and give two telephone numbers so police can contact them if the alarm activates, The Daily Progress reports. Failure to register the systems will cost alarm owners $300 for police and fire departments to respond to false alarms. Registration begins in either December or January.
Source: NBC29.com
